Etiology Copy

Trainee: Introduction (7)

One of the most active areas of research in the area of psychosis is on etiology (i.e., causality). The Stress-Vulnerability model has recently given way to a more complex paradigm which incorporates the multiple biopsychosocial factors which appear to be evident in retrospective studies of individuals with psychosis. Genetic factors, pre and post natal conditions, stress, trauma, temperament, substance use, environmental conditions and neurobiological models are present in the new, more complex paradigm considered by researchers and clinicians. The influence of this shift towards a multifactoral theory has major clinical and research implications. Allowing individuals with psychosis and their families to comprehend the diverse theories and potential treatment opportunities of the many factors influencing psychosis presents opportunities for clinicians to address issues such as stigma, relapse prevention and recovery in a more holistic way.

There is a handout and a worksheet on “What Causes Psychosis” on the care pathway page.

Further Reading

• Etiology of Mental Illness. A Powerpoint presentation by Jehannine Austin Ph.D. M.Sc., Research Genetic Counsellor, UBC Department of Psychiatry and Fraser Health EPI Program. (This document requires that you have MS Powerpoint installed on your computer)